Wells Gray to Mount Robson

The region of Wells Gray to Mount Robson is one of the true gems of BC – amid the mountains, forests, rivers and lakes – home of Wells Gray Provincial Park.

Wells Gray Country

This vast wilderness reserve of big lakes, deep river gorges, glacier-clad peaks, broad alpine meadows and old growth forests, at over 5,000 sq km (1,931 sq mi), is very nearly the same size as Banff National Park and offers an equally memorable experience.

Wells Gray is often known as the Waterfall Park for the many spectacular falls and rapids formed by the rushing waters of the Clearwater, Murtle and Mahood Rivers. Amongst these is the 143 m (470 ft) Helmcken Falls, which is the fourth highest waterfall in Canada, and 1.5 times the height of Niagara. The Park also provides excellent wildlife viewing: black bear are seen from spring through fall, moose are particularly numerous in winter, and in quieter corners, it’s possible to glimpse grizzly bear, lynx, wolves, cougars and caribou. Amazing wildflowers await hikers in the alpine meadows that skirt the Trophy Mountains during the mid-summer months. Early fall marks the beginning of major runs of sockeye and Chinook salmon – watch these huge fish leaping the rapids at The Kettle or Bailey’s Chute on the Clearwater River, or see them begin their journey up the Raft River from the new purpose-built platform just north of town.

Outdoor enthusiasts are sure to find their ideal arena here in Wells Grey, whether you’re seeking an adrenalin-rush or sheer serenity. The Park’s big lakes – Clearwater, Azure, Mahood and Murtle (the largest paddle-only lake in North America) – offer wonderful opportunities for canoeing while the Clearwater and North Thompson are known for world class whitewater rafting and kayaking. Hikers, mountain-bikers and horseback-riders will find endless miles of trails, and several well-kept courses provide challenging golf opportunities. Fishing continues all year for river and lake trout and for salmon during late fall. In winter, the area is a snowy wonderland where you can experience 80 km (50 mi) of groomed cross-country ski trails, excellent back-country skiing, snow-showing, authentic dog-sledding and challenging snowmobiling.

Mount Robson

Mount Robson Park is the other major attraction in the northern part of the Thompson Okanagan. It is the second oldest park in British Columbia’s park system and is home to the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, for which the park is named. Mount Robson staggers over the landscape at 3,954 m (12,972 ft) as it guards the western entrance to the park. Travelers are in awe of the mountain’s magnificence and commonly find access to the park from Tete Jaune Cache, which is located on the Yellowhead Route at Highways 5 and 16.

The amazingly varied terrain of Mt. Robson Park allows for many species of animals to inhabit the area. Mountain goats, moose, deer, elk, caribou and grizzly bear help to balance the park’s serene, yet fragile ecosystem. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant as the landscape varies from shear rock cliffs to fog blown marshes and dense woodland. To capture a glimpse of the park’s natural splendour, visitors need only bring a pair of binoculars and patience.

The Communities of the North Thompson Valley

The major towns in this area are Valemount, Blue River, Clearwater, and Little Fort. All four towns are accessible by the Yellowhead Highway 5.

The northern-most point of the Thompson Okanagan, Valemount, is on the steps of magnificent Mount Robson Provincial Park. This is an ideal place to start exploring this exciting region – the community is dedicated to providing its visitors with high-quality service and some of the most exciting adventures in BC. There are many opportunities to explore nature in Valemount. Popular activities include wilderness hiking, canoeing, horseback riding and ATVing. Visitors can see the world’s longest salmon run at George Hicks Regional Park or visit the R.W. Starratt Wildlife sanctuary – home to over 150 species of birds for some of Canada’s best bird watching. A popular spot for snowmobiling, Valemount has repeatedly received a prestigious Snoriders Choice Award for its world-class runs suitable for every level of rider. While in Valemount, expect heart-warming hospitality and all the visitors’ services needed to make it a memorable stay.

Blue River is a small community 94 km (56 mi) to the south of Valemount. Located in the North Thompson River Valley, the small community is bounded by the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains. Mike Wiegele’s Helicopter Skiing draws visitors from all over the world to experience the deep powder skiing. You can take a River Safari to see wildlife or paddle Murtle Lake.

Clearwater, located 124 km (77 mi) north of Kamloops and 106 km (66 mi) south of Blue River, is the largest community in the North Thompson Valley and situated on the doorstep of Wells Gray Park and its abundant outdoor recreation. With many remote lakes in the area, visitors can test their angling skills or, for a more thrilling experience, try white-water rafting down the Clearwater River – an adrenaline rush that showcases beautiful scenery.

Heading south from Blue River will bring you to Little Fort, situated where Highway 24, also known as The Fishing Highway, and the Yellowhead Highway 5 meet. This small community and the surrounding area are home to ranchlands and farming, and fishing resorts. Horse-back riding, hiking and mountain-biking plus some of the best fishing can be found here.

Wells Gray to Mount Robson & Nearby Accommodations

Alpine Meadows Resort

Clearwater

Situated on the hilltop above Hallamore Lake, Alpine Meadows RV Park is just
beyond the Resort’s entrance, surrounded by the majestic forest in BC’s
beautiful Dunn Peak Provincial Park. Our RV sites provide guests with spacious
asphalt pads and grass area to create a comfortable stay. Each of ou ... Read more

Birch Island Campground

Clearwater

10 km north of Clearwater on Hwy 5, beautiful quiet country setting with river
access, mountain views, hiking, fishing, games yard and playground. Each site is
a private, treed pull-thru. No "I'm camping in a field" feeling here. Firewood,
showers and WiFi. Full-service country-style store and gas n ... Read more

Blue River Campground & RV Park

Blue River

Enjoy the space and wilderness of Blue River at our campground and RV Park. Our cabins and tipis provide a fantastic resting spot, ideal after a long day of travelling! Take a wilderness hike or bike ride; paddle a pristine mountain lake; fish a mountain stream; swim in Eleanor Lake or relax by your ... Read more

Bone Creek Wilderness Retreat

Blue River

Bone Creek Wilderness Retreat is north of Blue River, BC in the heart of the Cariboo and Monashee Mountains. Take a breath of fresh air and savor the clean clear wilderness experience of a stay at our retreat. Come to relax, come to play, come to recharge." Endless Things To Do"
Our retreat offers ... Read more

Canoe River Campground Ltd.

Valemount

Stay at Valemount's newest campground. Camp along the river side or enjoy one of
the spectacular mountain views. Campsites are situated far enough apart for
privacy. Also offer group rates. Washrooms and showers are centrally located. We
offer 30-50 amp services. Tent sites also available. Hiking, b ... Read more

Clearwater Country Inn & RV Park

Clearwater

After a long day of travelling on Hwy 5, spend a well-deserved night’s sleep at Clearwater Country Inn & RV Park. Relax in our well-appointed guestrooms or our well-maintained campground. Whether you’re staying overnight or for a week-long, we are happy to exceed your expectations and needs. We ... Read more

Clearwater Valley Resort

Clearwater

200 meters from Information Center on the road to Wells Gray Park. Modern,
friendly motel which consists of individual bungalows and motel rooms in a
park-like setting. Queen and king beds, family rooms, in-room coffee, cable TV
and kitchenettes available. Secure on-line reservations at
www.clearwat ... Read more

Clearwater/Wells Gray KOA

Clearwater

Situated in a beautiful parklike setting, Clearwater Valley Resort & KOA
Campground invites your family to book their next vacation with us! Our resort
and campground is ideal for guests to explore Wells Gray Park and its
spectacular waterfalls, ancient volcanoes, various wildlife and glistening
lak ... Read more

Dutch Lake Resort & RV Park

Clearwater

Stay at the lake in Clearwater! This is the perfect location for a vacation or
as part of your tour between Jaspar and Vancouver. Guests have direct access to
Dutch Lake from all nine private cabins. Each cabin is self-contained with
kitchens and full bathrooms, including linens and towels. There is ... Read more